Aspen Creek Trail #48


Aspen Creek Trail #48 climbs steeply from its trailhead on Copper Basin Road to a ridge below Mount Francis. After this initial climb, the trail evens out and provides an easy, scenic hike. There are some nice views of Spruce Mountain, Mount Union, and the Wilhoit area. Upper portions of this trail pass through ponderosa pine and Gambel oak. Although there are no aspens along the trail, there is a large stand of these remarkable trees farther up Copper Basin Road from the trailhead.

This trail is open to hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bicyclists.  Please be considerate of other users—slow down and know when to yield the trail.  Refrain from using horses and bicycles when the trail is wet.

 

Printable Map:

At a Glance

Fees: No
Open Season: Year Round
Usage: Medium
Closest Towns: Approximately 25 minutes from Prescott, AZ
Water: Not available. Surface water should be treated.

General Information

Directions:

From its intersection with White Spar Road, travel west on Copper Basin Road 3 miles to the end of the pavement.  Continue another 1.5 miles to the trailhead on the right.  Parking is fair.  TR 48 begins uphill on the opposite side of the road.  The road conditions are suitable for all vehicle types.


General Notes:
  • Connecting trails: East Copper Trail #260
  • Maps:
    • USGS Map: 7.5’ quads for Prescott, Iron Springs, and Wilhoit
    • Prescott National Forest Map, west half
  • Average hiking time: 2 hours, one way

Activities

Mountain Biking

  • An attractive ride in the Sierra Prieta, TR 48 can be combined with TR 260 for a longer trip.
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day Hiking

  • A scenic hike in the Sierra Prieta where a diverse plant community supports a variety of wildlife.
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Horse Riding

  • While this trail is open to horseback riding and provides a scenic trip into the Sierra Prieta, the trailhead does not easily accommodate horse trailers.
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Area/Length : 
3.0 miles

  Elevation : 
6,827 feet